McGill researchers create new pill to treat inherited blindness

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a breakthrough way to treat certain forms of inherited blindness. Their study is in the new issue of the medical journal The Lancet.

The clinical study showed that by taking one pill for seven days, 10 out of 14 patients with Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA) disease had better vision.

42-year old Nathalie Fex, one of the patients with the inherited disease , who participated in the study, says after two days of taking the medication she could already see more colors and sharper images.

“You know those nice white and yellow lines in intersections? I didn’t see those, now I do and it helps me cross the street,” Fex said.

“I am able to pick something up, without making everything fall, it’s been a big gain in my life.”

If untreated LCA will cause parts of the eye to shut down and eventually die.

The doctors behind the study say the key in treatment is catching it as soon as possible.

The study has been submitted to Health Canada for approval. The medication could be available in two years.